Description
Delight in these rich and moist Banana Bread Brownies, a perfect fusion of classic banana bread and fudgy brownies topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla frosting. Made with ripe bananas, a mix of sugars, and optional walnuts, these bars offer a sweet and comforting dessert with a soft glaze-like finish that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownies
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal of your brownies later.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, mashed ripe bananas, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until all ingredients are combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Add walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts if you choose to include them, for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Prepare frosting: While the brownies bake, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable, creating a sweet glaze to top your brownies.
- Frost and cool: Allow the brownies to cool slightly after baking—while still warm, spread the frosting evenly over the surface for a soft glaze effect. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to allow the frosting to set.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for an extra intense banana flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy undertone.
- Store brownies tightly covered to keep them moist for several days.
